The Nintendo Switch is an amazing console, isn’t it? It’s truly versatile for families: one minute you’re playing on the big TV, the next you slide the Joy-Cons on and take the game with you. But navigating the console’s massive library to find the right games for the younger members of the house can feel like a real chore. How do you actually pinpoint titles that are engaging, age-appropriate, and, perhaps most importantly, won’t drive the adults absolutely bonkers after just two hours?
Don’t worry—we’ve all been there, staring blankly at the eShop, desperately trying to figure out if that new release is actually okay for a seven-year-old. After years of testing these games ourselves (and yes, we admit, occasionally “borrowing” the controller from the kids), we’ve compiled a short list of must-haves that genuinely capture the magic of family gaming.
Essential Nintendo Switch Platformers: Joy and Exploration
You simply cannot discuss Nintendo games for kids without bringing up Mario. It is the foundational experience, and it would be foolish to overlook it.
Super Mario Odyssey is arguably the best starting point for any young gamer. Yes, it’s a huge 3D adventure, but the controls are incredibly welcoming and accessible. If your child struggles with tricky jumps or managing the camera, the cooperative mode offers a brilliant solution: one parent takes control of Mario’s hat, Cappy, flying around and helping out. This lets you play together without one person completely dominating the screen. Furthermore, the worlds are simply bursting with charm—who wouldn’t want to possess a T-Rex wearing a mustache? While the official rating is for those generally around six and up (or E10+ in the US, but the PEGI rating is 7+ and it is widely played by younger kids), many parents find the assist features allow even younger players to enjoy it, and that’s the main goal.
For a completely different experience, you might want to try Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Kirby games have always been known for their gentle approach, and this installment is no exception. It introduces 3D exploration for the pink puffball, but crucially, it includes a “Spring-Breeze” difficulty setting. If the action gets too tough for your little one, they can switch to this mode and enjoy the vibrant, colorful levels with far less pressure. Honestly, it feels like a hug in video game form.
Great for Groups: Multiplayer Mayhem
Sometimes, you just need a game that lets everyone jump in immediately. Nothing breaks up a rainy afternoon faster or better than some friendly competition.
If you purchase only one multiplayer title, make it Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Can you even own a Switch without it? It is, simply put, the ultimate racing game. It features Smart Steering and Auto-Accelerate options that are absolute lifesavers. With these settings activated, even the most inexperienced player can stay on the track and feel competitive. This translates to fewer meltdowns and more shouting over turtle shells—the good kind of chaos, naturally. It really is a game designed to welcome and challenge all skill levels.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something less aggressive and more centered on creativity and strategy, look toward Mario Party Superstars. This title revives classic mini-games and board maps from the Nintendo 64 era, giving parents a fun hit of nostalgia while introducing their kids to the concept of digital board games. It’s a fantastic package of 100 mini-games, guaranteeing that someone, somewhere in the group, will find a challenge they can completely master.
For the Young Creator: Building and Dreaming
What if your child prefers quiet creativity over high-speed races? The Switch library has perfect cozy options available, too.
Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the definitive “life simulation” game. You relocate to a deserted island and slowly build it up from scratch. There are no time limits, no major enemies to defeat, and absolutely zero pressure. Whether your child is decorating their house, fishing, or talking to the delightfully quirky animal neighbors, it’s a peaceful sandbox for imagination. It’s truly perfect for kids who love to decorate or just enjoy a relaxing, open-ended routine. The only downside? You might find yourself checking on your own virtual island long after the kids have gone to bed. It’s incredibly absorbing.
And of course, there’s Minecraft. It remains one of the best games ever made for fostering spatial reasoning and problem-solving. In Creative Mode, kids have unlimited blocks to construct literally anything they can imagine. It’s an open-ended world that truly encourages them to learn by doing. I’ve seen kids use it to recreate entire fictional towns. It’s an absolute powerhouse for creativity.
So, how do you finally decide what’s right? You probably know your child best. Are they a focused puzzler, a competitive racer, or a whimsical builder? Whatever their style, the Switch has a wonderful, safe world waiting for them to explore.
We want to hear what games your kids simply can’t stop playing! Did we miss a hidden gem that keeps your family laughing? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more family gaming tips!
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Sources
- www.au.pcmag.com/nintendo-games/86233/the-best-nintendo-switch-games-for-kids
- www.nintendolife.com/guides/best-nintendo-switch-games-for-kids
- www.eneba.com/hub/games/best-nintendo-switch-family-games
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